CHAPTER THIRTY-SEVEN

We stroll towards a beautiful restaurant nestled close to the beach, the gentle rhythm of crashing waves providing a soothing backdrop to push down the sense of dread that threatens to overwhelm me. At least the location is pleasant, I tell myself, trying to find a silver lining in this uncomfortable situation. To my surprise, Alpha Collins insists on ordering for both of us, assuring me that I'll love his choices. I don't argue; instead, I focus on ordering a glass of iced tea to soothe my frayed nerves while he opts for a simple cup of water.

As our lunch progresses, I find myself pleasantly surprised by Alpha Collins's behavior. True to his word, he steers our conversation towards substantive business matters, discussing the costs and logistics of the resort's new design plans. His focus remains squarely on the details, not allowing our previous tension to derail the discussion.

Emboldened by his professionalism, I decide to pitch some ideas I have been mulling over on how he could